This research explores the development of alt-right microcelebrities within the digital mainstream to highlight the emerging new repertoire of far-right radicalization in a fast-evolving digital...Show moreThis research explores the development of alt-right microcelebrities within the digital mainstream to highlight the emerging new repertoire of far-right radicalization in a fast-evolving digital ecosystem. This paper takes an ethnographic approach to analyzing a single established alt-right microcelebrity, Tim Gionet, known by his internet handle @BakedAlaska. This paper utilizes Senft’s theory of microcelebrity to explore 'How has Tim Gionet, a far-right personality established himself in the digital mainstream through the cultivation of a microcelebrity persona?'. Gionet cultivates unique identity markers to attract a broad audience, through methods of self-branding and marketing strategies. Furthermore, Gionet uses trolling, a digital, performative mocking technique, in his streams to attract attention from his audience, which is maintained through mechanisms of strategic intimacy. Therefore, Gionet is able to develop a para-social relationship with his audience using mechanisms of microcelebrity to establish himself as an influencer within the mainstream community of the Alt-Right.Show less
Online right-wing radicalization has been on the rise globally. Little academic research has been conducted on this phenomenon. One study conceptualizes the online right-wing radicalization process...Show moreOnline right-wing radicalization has been on the rise globally. Little academic research has been conducted on this phenomenon. One study conceptualizes the online right-wing radicalization process in a pipeline. This study will research whether this Pipeline theory is a new concept, or whether it exists in some other form. By conducting a narrative qualitative analysis on three skinhead autobiographies, this research has discovered that the Pipeline theory can be applied to older cases of right-wing radicalization, thus meaning that the Pipeline theory exists in other forms. While the Pipeline can be applied to older cases, this research has disclosed that the online and offline trajectories are too contrasting with one another. It is of the utmost importance for policymakers and law enforcement to research the Alt-Right Pipeline. Falling into the Alt-Right Pipeline can have deadly consequences, e.g. the Christchurch Massacre, El-Paso Wallmart Shooting et cetera.Show less
